International inspirations and local adaptations together shape regenerative farming knowledge across Europe

Agriculture supports human well-being but exerts pressure on the environment, driving climate change and biodiversity loss. Regenerative agriculture is gaining traction as a solution, yet how farmers access knowledge about regenerative practices remains unclear. This study interviewed 128 self-identified regenerative farmers across five European countries, identifying 834 unique knowledge sources spanning over 52 distinct practices. Using Social Network Analysis, we show that both national and international knowledge sources play pivotal roles. Peer-to-peer learning dominated nationally, while prominent international figures shaped broader narratives across borders through diverse channels, including books and digital platforms. This suggests international knowledge sources tend to inspire guiding principles, while local actors adapt practices to context. Our findings highlight the importance of hybrid knowledge spaces that connect scientific and farmer expertise, strengthen multi-scale networks through intermediaries, and ensure digital platforms offer evidence-based, context-informed content to scale regenerative agriculture effectively. Regenerative agriculture spreads through international influencers, shaping shared principles, while local peers tailor practices to context, according to a social network analysis of interviews with 128 farmers, tracing 834 knowledge sources across five European countries. Peer review information: